The Ford SEC is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine introduced in 2013 as part of Ford’s updated Sigma family. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout, port fuel injection, and variable intake manifold with Ti-VCT (twin independent variable cam timing). In standard form it produces 88–92 kW (120–125 PS) with torque between 153–159 Nm, offering smooth linear power delivery and low maintenance requirements.
Fitted to entry-level and mid-range models such as the Fiesta, B-MAX, and EcoSport, the SEC was engineered for urban efficiency and everyday reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise lambda control, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and catalytic converter optimization, allowing compliance with Euro 5 from launch and Euro 6b from 2015 onward (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5128).
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to port injection limitations under high-mileage or short-trip conditions, noted in Ford Service Bulletin TSB‑16‑1842. While less severe than direct-injection engines, deposits can still affect idle quality and emissions. Ford recommends periodic intake cleaning and adherence to service intervals to mitigate long-term accumulation.
Production years 2013–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–present models comply with Euro 6b (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5128).
The Ford SEC is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact applications (2013–present). It combines port fuel injection with twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver smooth, linear power and strong cold-start reliability. Designed to meet Euro 5 (early builds) and Euro 6b (2015 onward), it prioritizes serviceability and fuel economy over performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 88–92 kW (120–125 PS) | |
| Torque | 153–159 Nm @ 4,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point port injection (Bosch ME7.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2013–2014); Euro 6b (2015–present) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (SAE 5W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 109 kg |
The naturally aspirated design with Ti-VCT provides predictable throttle response and minimal complexity, ideal for city driving and learner drivers. Oil must meet Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-20) to ensure proper cam phasing and chain lubrication. While port injection reduces carbon buildup risk compared to direct injection, high-mileage or short-trip usage can still lead to intake valve deposits—Ford recommends decarbonization every 80,000 km if symptoms arise. The front-mounted timing chain is generally robust but requires correct oil viscosity to prevent premature wear. Early SEC units (2013–2014) lack Euro 6b compliance and may face ULEZ restrictions in certain UK cities.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-20) specification (Ford Owner’s Manual). Not interchangeable with 0W-20 or older specs.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2013–2014 models; Euro 6b compliance from 2015 onward (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5128).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across model years due to fixed aspiration (Ford TIS Doc. F19‑3430).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F19‑3410, F19‑3415, TSB‑16‑1842
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5128)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford SEC was used across Ford's B‑Car platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific calibrations—revised cooling fans in the EcoSport and updated mounts in the B-MAX—but remained mechanically consistent across applications. From 2015, all variants adopted updated ECU maps for Euro 6b compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Ford TIS F19‑3405). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('G' for 1.6L naturally aspirated). All SEC engines feature a black plastic intake manifold with “1.6 Ti-VCT” embossed. Critical differentiation from REC: SEC uses twin independent VCT (on both intake and exhaust cams) and updated Bosch ECU (ME7.5.2). Early vs. late emissions: Pre-2015 units lack secondary air injection; post-2015 include Euro 6b hardware per VCA/EMS/5128.
The SEC's primary reliability strengths are its simplicity and lack of turbo or direct injection, but it is not immune to issues. Ford internal data shows low warranty claim rates, while UK DVSA records indicate occasional emissions-related MOT failures in pre-2015 Euro 5 units due to aging catalysts. Carbon buildup—though milder than in GDI engines—can still occur with frequent short trips, making periodic maintenance advisable.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2013–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD SEC.
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